Admission Standards
CODES is a selective program designed for students who are:
- First-generation; or historically underrepresented in their major; or determined to be Pell-eligible based on the FAFSA or IL RISE Application
- Interested in research and active learning
- Committed to the community and ready to take action
Rather than requiring a specific test score or GPA, CODES uses a set of admissions standards that evaluate a student’s commitment to the community and interest in active learning. The application for admission to CODES is a supplemental form students complete and submit after submitting their general application for admission to SIUE. CODES will offer 100 spots to incoming students in the next cohort.
How to apply
Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 school year
We are accepting applications on a rolling basis through April 20, 2025
- Apply to SIUE
- Complete the supplemental CODES application
- If eligible, File the FAFSA or IL RISE Application as soon as it becomes available
- Watch for information about registering for New Student Orientation which is mandatory for all first-year students
Tips for your Application
You can see the full list of questions on the application form here. It is a good idea to write out your answers to the short questions in a separate document so you have the ability to edit and to take your time. Then you can cut and paste them into the form when you are ready to submit.
If you open the application on your computer in a specific browser and go back to the link later, it should remember your previous answers. If all else fails, email us at codescholars@siue.edu, and we can resend you the link to your application with your answers saved.
Remember, we most want to learn about you and your interest in CODES. Please do not use AI-generated content in your answers. That tells us what a large data model thinks... we want to know what you think!
After Submitting the Application
You can expect an email from us within the next week letting you know your application is complete. Interviews will be ongoing through May 1 or until all spots are filled. As the committee prefers to choose students collectively, you may not have an official answer regarding your admission until May 1.
The Interview
CODES Interviews are conducted virtually using a Microsoft Teams link. They are twenty minutes in length. You can expect faculty, staff, and other CODE Scholars on the call. The interview is a chance for us to learn more about you and for you to learn more about CODES!
We ask the following questions in your interviews:
Why did you apply for CODES? What about the program interests you?
What are your goals for your time in college?
Working in teams can come with challenges. On a scale of 1 – 5, How well do you work collaboratively and why would you rate yourself in this way? How do you respond to challenges and unexpected events in group projects?
If you have a large project in front of you, and some of it requires new skills or knowledge, what would you do to complete the work?
CODES includes students from many different backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and regions; this is what makes the program so exceptional! CODES classrooms are among the most diverse places on campus. Tell us about a time when you learned something through talking with people who were different than you.
Apply for a Vacant Position in an Existing Cohort
Though it is rare, the CODES program occasionally admits a small number of students for the spring semester if vacant spots become available. Applications for vacant spots are due no later than December 15. Applicants must be already enrolled SIUE students who are in the first year of coursework and are in good academic standing. You may submit your application for a vacant spot at any point prior to December 15, but do not expect updates on your application sooner than January 7. Candidates who submit successful applications, will also be asked to complete an interview before they accepted into the program. If you are interested in a vacant position in the program, apply here.
